Removable Dental Prosthesis

Complete and partial removable dentures

What is a removable dental prosthesis?

There are two types of removable dental prostheses: complete removable prostheses, with or without implants, and removable partial dentures. These prostheses are made in a laboratory using impressions or a mould. They must be cleaned daily and soaked overnight, as plaque can build up on them. Plaque can also lodge on the surrounding natural teeth, making them more vulnerable to decay. Dentures help restore chewing and phonetic function while also providing an aesthetic restoration.

Removable dental prosthesis

Types of removable prostheses

01

Complete removable prosthesis

Replaces all natural teeth in the upper or lower jaw and is held in place by suction. It can be removed from the mouth for daily maintenance or for sleeping.

02

Removable partial denture

Replaces one or more missing teeth and can be removed for cleaning and overnight. It helps prevent natural teeth from migrating into the edentulous area over time.

03

Acrylic partial denture

Rests directly on the gums and is mainly used on a temporary basis, such as before extractions or before making a metal partial denture.

04

Metal partial denture

Uses a metal framework and clasps to hold the partial denture to the neighbouring teeth. It is generally more stable than an acrylic partial denture.

Complete removable prosthesis

The complete removable prosthesis replaces all the natural teeth of the upper or lower jaw. It is held in place by suction. Its main disadvantage is that it can shift or even dislodge entirely, which may interfere with chewing and speaking. It can be removed from the mouth for daily maintenance or for sleeping.

Removable partial dentures

The removable partial denture replaces one or more missing teeth. It can be removed for cleaning and overnight. In the long term, it helps prevent natural teeth from migrating into the edentulous area. It may be used when neighbouring teeth are not strong enough to support a bridge or when too many teeth are missing.

Acrylic partial dentures

This type of prosthesis rests directly on the gums and is mainly used on a temporary basis when one or more teeth need to be extracted, or when an occlusal problem must be corrected before a metal partial denture is made. It is less stable than a metal prosthesis and may, over time, contribute to loosening of the remaining natural teeth or gum inflammation. Its main advantage is that it is less expensive than a metal prosthesis.

Acrylic partial denture

Metal partial denture

Metal partial dentures are made with a metal framework and clasps that hold the partial denture to the neighbouring teeth. Because metal is conductive, the clasps may increase sensitivity to cold or heat. In some cases, the clasps may also be visible. A metal partial denture is generally much more stable than an acrylic partial denture.

Metal partial denture

Frequently Asked Questions

Restore your smile and function

Our team can evaluate your needs and recommend the removable prosthesis option best suited to your mouth, comfort and daily function.